Environmental policy statement

Over recent years, more emphasis has been placed on environmental considerations in leather production. As a leading supplier of leather for the furniture industry for more than 35 years we endeavour to meet and comply with the strict environmental regulations within the leather industry and to promote superior quality leather produced in the most environmentally friendly possible way.

It is in our interest as well as in the interest of our co-operators that our leather is processed using the most environmentally acceptable methods and that this process complies with both EU and local legislation. Our tanneries’ environmental commitment entails constant monitoring of new technologies emerging from leather research and development. In accordance with EU and local authority standards, our tanneries have their own wastewater treatment plants. The authorities conduct regular inspections to ensure that the quality and environmental standards are maintained at all times.

We source our leather from the most reputable tanneries in the world offering excellent environmental infrastructures, intelligent recycling systems and modern dosing technologies for the responsible utilisation of their chemicals. Amongst our suppliers, several are ISO 14001 or 9001 certified or have implemented other types of quality and environmental management systems. Some also hold the LWG (Leather Working Group) Environmental Certificate awarded by BLC Leather Technology Centre (covering standards, procedures and control regarding the use of restricted substances and complying with all local and international environmental and safety requirements). For restricted substances like PCP, AZO dyestuffs, formaldehyde etc. we require that our suppliers strictly follow the legislation in this area.

In addition, 90% of the hides used are of European origin, which also ensures limited transport time to the tanneries. The raw material for these hides comes from approved slaughterhouses, where the handling and treatment of cattle fully meet the appropriate animal welfare and hygiene requirements. The tanning industry also recognises that the quality of the hides and skins they receive generally reflects the health and welfare standards applied during the life of the animal.

So far there is no clear definition of “eco” leather, as there have not yet been any established environmentally relevant criteria for defining the term “eco leather”. However, we attach great importance to environmentally friendly leather and by choosing the best and most green-minded suppliers we do all we can to produce and sell the most environmentally friendly leather possible.